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Severe weather in Oklahoma is an unfortunate eventuality. Luckily, a high-quality roof that is maintained with proper upkeep has the ability to stand against rough conditions for a long time.

So what should you do if you are in an area recently hit by strong storms?

Inspection

If you suspect your roof has been damaged, the first thing you can do is go outside and take a look at it. Signs of damage you should look out for include damage caused by hail which may appear like scuffs or circles that are lighter or darker in color compared to your normal shingle color. You should also look for lifted shingles, missing shingles, tears, cracks, and so on.

To be certain of any roof damage, contact your roofing professional and arrange a visit for them to inspect the health of your roof.

Prevention

It is possible to reduce the risks facing your roof. Take preventative measures when the weather is clear. You can start by pruning your trees of any dead branches and pick up any fallen branches as well. Look around for any litter that may have gathered on your property and throw it away. It's also a good idea to make sure you put away all toys, tools, and objects that could be picked up and thrown by high winds.

Maintenance

Preventative maintenance is a major part of the Land Enterprises Roofing service experience. Our maintenance program includes thorough inspections and routine cleaning, clearing debris, and trimming back any limbs that could pose a threat to your roof. If you'd like to know more about each visit to maintain your roof, we do include a written report that covers every aspect of what was cleaned and cared for during our visit.

Insurance and warranties

Shingle warranties can last up to 50 years. The bad news is, warranties typically only cover imperfections and the manufacturers can choose to void a warranty if the roof owner cannot prove proper upkeep and maintenance.

You should have an insurance policy that covers your roof to avoid any surprise expenses. Read through your policy or talk to your agent to make sure you know whether or not you are covered for things like fire, hail, wind, and falling tree/branch damage. Don't forget to ask about a leaky roof as well.

Another added benefit of Land's services is that we will work with your insurance company if you need to file a claim.

If you're ready to learn more about Land Enterprises Roofing services or have any of your questions answered, please call us at (405) 359-3951 or email us at info@landroofingokc.com.

When a flat roof starts to leak, many people will simply think water is pooling on top of the building. But standing water is just one of many factors that can contribute to a leaky flat roof.

That being said, it is a good idea to check for leaks and pooling water on a flat roof after heavy rains. As a roof settles and changes shape over time, the chances of standing water increase. Standing water puts extra pressure on the roof and deteriorates the roofing materials.

Many issues may result from a settling and aging roof: flashing leaks, buckling, or alligatoring. Yes, alligatoring.

Flashing

Flashing is the material used to seal off the area between any flat roof surface and any non-flat surface on the roof. Basically, it covers the gaps and cracks at the edges of things on your roof. Over time, a roof’s flashing may start to pull away, peel up, crack, or tear which can lead to leaks and moisture seeping into the building below.

Buckling

Buckling relates to the asphalt membrane of the roof, and it’s another issue that arises due to excessive movement from a settling roof over time. As a roof gets older, the asphalt membrane may wrinkle or buckle. A buckled roof is not a healthy roof, and it’s a sign that your roof needs maintenance.

Alligatoring

This happens when asphalt used on a roof wears out and starts to crack and bubble and take on an appearance that resembles the bumpy skin of an alligator. A roof alligator can’t bite you, but if you ignore the issue, it will certainly feel painful one way or another.

A professionally installed flat roof can last anywhere from 15 to 30 years. But there are obviously many factors that can impact the health of your roof. High amounts of rain, wind, ice, hail, and flying debris will eventually harm any roof.

The best approach to prevent leaks in a flat roof is to monitor the status of your roof. If you are concerned by something you see as a potential problem, have leaking issues, want to start a maintenance program, or just have some questions, feel free to contact us for a consultation.

As the seasons change, so do weather patterns. You need to make sure your roof is prepared to handle any of the extreme or bizarre conditions that Mother Nature may throw your way.

Here are several steps to take to make sure you are in the best position to handle the weather this year.

Insurance and warranties

Your home insurance and roof warranty can be a challenge to keep track of sometimes. While shingle warranties can last up to 50 years, they generally only cover material imperfections. And a manufacturer may choose to void a warranty if you can’t prove that proper maintenance has been done.

You should also read your insurance policy or call your insurance agent to understand what kind of protection your home has. Ask about things like fire, hail damage, wind, and falling trees/branches. Also ask if leaks are covered by your insurance.

Remember, Land Enterprises Roofing will work with your insurance company if you need to file a claim.

Cleaning and upkeep of your roof

There are a few things you can do to minimize risks to your roof and home. The first step is cleaning out your gutters. Get a ladder and some gloves and make sure water flow won’t be blocked by debris. While you are up there, you can take a closer look at your roof for any signs of peeling, lifting, or missing shingles.

You should also look into trimming trees that hang near or over your house. Take care to keep your property clean of any trash or branches as well. Strong winds can pick up surprisingly heavy things and throw them onto your roof.

Keep an eye on the weather, as you may have to alter your cleaning schedule if storms are predicted within a few days.

As always, take the necessary safety precautions whenever you’re using a ladder or are climbing on your roof.

Ongoing roof maintenance

If you are worried about leaks and roof damage, we offer preventative maintenance plans to keep your roof in great shape. We offer plans for both residential and commercial roofing needs.

To learn more about our roof maintenance plans or ask another roofing question, please call us at 405-359-3951 or send an email to info@landroofingokc.com.

No one likes having to pay for home repairs, especially when it comes to the more expensive parts of your home like a new roof.

Roofing isn’t cheap, but a well-applied roof should last for a long time. Here in Oklahoma, though, we have a unique set of circumstances that can shorten the lifespan of your roof.

Let’s take a look at life expectancies for different roofing materials, some factors that can shorten those, and how to know when it’s time to get your roof replaced.

Shingles

Most of the roofs in Oklahoma are made of various types of shingles. The lowest grade of shingle is three-tab, which is not used a lot in Oklahoma because of the very low wind rating. They’re the ones that look completely rectangular, which you may have seen on trailer homes. These can last from ten to twenty years, but in windy areas or areas with high temperature variance, the lifespan can be dramatically shorter.

Most houses in this area have architectural or dimensional shingles, which are made of multiple shingle layers. They’re more durable than three-tab and have a higher wind rating, which makes them the most cost-effective choice for many Oklahoma roofing applications. They usually last from fifteen to 25 years.

Finally there are premium shingles, which are used on higher-end homes. These are thicker and fancier-looking, and they can last from twenty to 30 years. Some also have special properties like reflectivity or impact resistance, which can help cushion against the worst environmental factors that shorten the life of a roof.

Metal

There are multiple different kinds of metal roofing, including standing seam, ribbed metal, and metal shingle. These are all very durable with ribbed metal occasionally lasting a little shorter time depending on the installation method. In general, metal roofs should last between 30 and 50 years.

Tile

Tile roofs aren’t often seen in Oklahoma. They require more bracing to deal with the weight of the roof, but if your home can stand it, they have very good durability. Clay tile roofs can last anywhere from 50 to 100 years. Concrete tile comes in slightly lower at 40 to 75 years.

Other roofing materials

Slate is one of the best and most expensive roofing materials with very high durability. It can last between 50 and 100 years.

Composite shingle systems can last between 30 and 50 years, but those systems cost more than regular shingle roofs.

Cedar shingle or shake roofs are more common on the coasts, and they’re designed to last twenty to 35 years. They require some maintenance, however, and can last longer if properly taken care of. Wind uplift ratings depend fairly heavily on installation.

There are some other options for flat roofs, but those are typically found in commercial roofs rather than residential applications.

What can shorten the lifespan of my roof?

Oklahoma isn’t a great place to live if you’re a roof. Wind is one of the worst offenders for tearing up a roof, and high winds are common here. In addition, the frequent temperature fluctuations cause the shingles to expand and contract, which causes cracks to form over time. Ice can form in these cracks in the winter months and cause the cracks to expand. Proper installation can help, but roof lifespans in Oklahoma tend to be short.

How can I tell if my shingle roof needs to be replaced?

There are quite a few signs that can indicate it’s time to replace your roof:

Cupped or curled shingle edges

Bald spots without granules

Visible cracks

Age or visible wear

Another key sign that your roof might need to be replaced is when your neighbors are getting new roofs. Most homes in a neighborhood are built around the same time, and the roofs will begin to wear out around the same time as well.

If you think your roof is approaching the end of its life, call us at 405-359-3951 or send an email to info@landroofingokc.com to schedule a free roof inspection.

What if your roof didn’t just protect your house but also helped power it? That's the idea behind the solar roof, an innovation that's slowly starting to catch on in the United States.

Solar panels on the roof are not a new idea-they've been around for years. But recently some companies are working to make the solar roof more accessible. Solar shingles are a new development that help a solar roof look much more like a regular roof as compared to bulky solar panels.

What are solar shingles?

Solar shingles, also known as “building-integrated photovoltaics” or BIPVs, are designed to make solar roofs more cost-effective and more unobtrusive. There are a few different options on the market from companies like CertainTeed, Forward, SunTegra, and Atlantis. They all function on the same general principle though.

Though some manufacturers have toyed with other technologies, most of the solar shingles are made up of silicon solar cells. Shingles tend to be slightly less energy-efficient than the equivalent square footage in panels, mainly because no air can circulate under the solar cell. They have the benefit of blending in with the regular roof though. Some (including CertainTeed's) can be installed directly onto roofing felt, while others go on top of an existing roof.

What other solar roof options exist?

There are some manufacturers who offer other solar options, too. These include both fixed and flexible solar panels. These are usually slightly cheaper than solar shingles, but they need to be installed on top of an existing roof and directly screwed to the rafters or trusses.

Is it worth the cost?

The answer to that question depends on where you live. Solar roofs are not cheap-they usually come in between three and six dollars a watt. In some states like Massachusetts and California, there are tax credits and incentives that can help offset the cost. There is a 30 percent federal income tax incentive that applies anywhere as well.

Once they're installed, though, they can be surprisingly durable. Most solar tile companies offer a warranty between 25 and 30 years, with some offering an even longer warranty.

If a solar installation were to be damaged by a hail or wind storm, it should be covered by insurance, but it's worth checking with your insurance agent before investing in a solar roof.

Solar roofs in Oklahoma

Land Enterprises Roofing offers solar roof installations for CertainTeed, and we personally have a backup solar system at our house. Here in Oklahoma where wind and sun are common commodities, renewable energy can cut your bills back by a fair amount. In the case of an ice storm or tornado that knocks power out for a couple of days, a solar roof can be a nice alternative to a generator.

If you'd like to learn more about solar roofs, there's an excellent piece on EnergySage that lays out the basics. Interested in discussing a solar roof? Call 405-359-3951 or send an email to info@landroofingokc.com, and we can see if a solar roof is the right fit for you.

Winter weather is tough on any roofing system and can result in leaks, water damage, missing and broken shingles, or damage to flashing and underlayment. Here are a four ways you can protect your roof from harsh winter weather.

Clean your gutters

Clean your gutters to remove any leaves, twigs, and other debris. Your gutters are an important part of protecting your roof because they allow water and melting snow to drain properly. If they’re clogged and water can’t drain, you could end up with leaks, water damage, and even mold or mildew.

Trim nearby trees

Most Oklahomans are pretty familiar with ice storms, and you’ve probably seen what happens when trees are coated in half an inch of ice. If those tree limbs snap under the weight of ice or snow, it can cause serious damage to your roof.

It’s a good idea to trim back any branches that are hanging over your home. It reduces the chance of broken limbs falling on your roof during winter weather, and it also reduces the amount of leaves that can collect on your roof and in your gutters. Normally, you would want to do this in the fall. However, you can still trim low-hanging tree limbs in the winter.

Insulate and ventilate your attic

While your attic may seem like an empty area or perhaps extra storage space, it also serves an important role in allowing heat to escape from your home. But that only happens if the attic is properly insulated and ventilated. In the absence of proper insulation and ventilation, hot air rises and creates condensation, which can lead to further problems. The excess heat in the attic can also cause snow on the roof to melt. If it’s cold enough for that melting snow to refreeze, it can create ice dams and cause serious leaks.

Schedule an inspection

A roof inspection helps prepare your roof for winter and can identify small issues to be fixed before snow and ice arrives. It could mean the difference between a quick fix and pricier repairs in the future.

Call us to schedule your first roof maintenance plan visit and start protecting your home today.

Many homeowners are unaware algae can grow on your roof, but it’s becoming more of an issue. You can see it driving down almost any street, no matter how nice or how new the homes are. Algae isn’t mold, mildew, moss, or tree sap. It’s actually tiny bacteria that produces a dark material to protect itself from the sun.

What makes algae hard to stop is that the bacteria travels on the wind. The more humid the area, the more you can have algae growing on your roof. While algae does very little damage to your roof, it can leave unsightly stains and discoloration. Not to mention it can really hurt the value of your home.

Here are a few ways to help prevent algae from growing on your roof. Before you attempt to clear the algae, it is a good idea to consult with a roofing professional to have your roof inspected and treated properly.

Buy algae-resistant shingles

Recently, many roofing manufacturers have noticed algae growing on roofs, especially in more humid areas. To combat this issue, manufacturers began mixing copper granules into roofing products to produce algae-resistant shingles. While these shingles aren’t always used, they are available and can be a good choice for roofs in areas with high humidity.

Clean with chemicals

While algae stains aren’t pretty, they can be removed using a variety of cleaning products that also help keep the algae from growing back for a while. However, it’s important to use caution when using chemicals on your roof, as you don’t want to void the manufacturer’s warranty on your shingles by using the wrong product.

If cleaning your roof with chemicals, be sure to use proper safety equipment, including safety goggles, rubber gloves, safety rope, slip-resistant shoes, and the right ladder.

Algae prevention

In order to keep algae from returning once your roof is clean, you can install a strip of copper or zinc coated sheet metal along each side of the roof just below the ridge. Copper and galvanized sheet metal are available in rolls of various widths and thickness and can be found at your local metal or hardware store or purchased online.

When it comes to algae or other stains on your roof, there are some do-it-yourself options, but we always recommend having a professional come out to inspect your roof to ensure you don’t cause unwanted damage in your attempts to clean it yourself. Contact us today to schedule a free roof inspection.

With winter bearing down on us all, now may be a fine time to peek into the attic to check on your insulation.

A well-insulated roof evenly distributes warmth throughout a home, cuts down on heating costs, and prevents ice dams. Some experts have estimated that new insulation saves anywhere from 10% to 50% on heating bills. Plus, good insulation means cool air stays inside during the hot summer months.

Types of insulation

If you are not sure what you have, you can always talk to a professional, but here are some ways to identify your current insulation type.

1. Loose fill

Loose fill insulation is either spread out or blown into place. It is usually used for attics with irregular joist spacing (not 16 or 24 inches), obstructions, or to fill gaps and cover existing material. Common materials include fiberglass, cellulose, and mineral wool.

Fiberglass is the lightest material, but it requires a thicker layer to work properly. It’s typically yellow, white, or brown.

Cellulose is the most common, but it should not be allowed to absorb any moisture due to the risk of mold and mildew. Cellulose insulation tends to look gray or brown.

Mineral wool is naturally fire resistant, but it is more expensive. It looks gray or white and can mimic long, stringy wool.

2. Rolls

These are the thick, flexible strips of material referred to as “batts.” They work best when joist spacing is a standard width and there is plenty of headroom for the installation process. Common materials include fiberglass, cellulose, mineral wool, and cotton.

Fiberglass is very commonly used. It may be a mild skin and lung irritant if touched, and it does not hamper airflow as well as other materials.

Cellulose is treated for insect and fire resistance. However, it is not produced by all manufacturers.

Mineral wool is naturally fire resistant, but it is more expensive.

Cotton blocks airflow and sound, but it is more expensive than other options.

R-Values

R-value refers to how much is required to meet a standard level of insulation. The recommended R-value target for Oklahoma ranges from R30 to R49. This means that if a material’s R-value is three, then ten inches of insulation would be required to meet the minimum value of R30.

The manufacturer should be able to give you more information about the R-value, and so can the professional you hire to install your new insulation. If you should decide to do the installation yourself, there is much more to consider. This Old House has a helpful guide if that is the case.

If you notice any potential roofing issues, give us a call at 405-359-3951 or send an email to info@landroofingokc.com for a free inspection or estimate.

The roof of your home or business wasn’t really designed with foot traffic in mind, which means climbing on it can be dangerous. If you do need to venture up on your roof for cleaning or maintenance, here are some basic safety tips to keep in mind.

Choose the right ladder

If you are going to use a ladder, use a sturdy ladder. Aluminum and fiberglass are popular options, but check the weight rating for any ladder you use. When the ladder is set up against the side of a house, it should extend at least three feet above the edge of the roof.

Do not climb on any rung above the edge of the roof, and keep both hands on the ladder as you make the transition onto the roof. Raise and lower tools after establishing yourself on the roof, not while climbing. These same actions in reverse will also help with making a safe descent.

Secure the ladder properly

A ladder is your link from roof to ground. It should be stable, which means all legs should be sitting flat on the ground to avoid rocking or slipping. A partner on the ground can help with stabilizing the ladder, as can tying off the ladder.

The angle of the ladder is an important part of set up and use. The general recommendation is that the bottom of the ladder should be one foot away from the roof for every four feet of ladder height. For example, a sixteen foot tall ladder should sit four feet away from the edge of a roof.

Avoid steep roofs

Steep roofs should be left to the professionals or those who know how to safely set up a roof harness system. If you are uncomfortable with a more shallow roof, harnesses and roof brackets are available for your use. Always follow instructions on installation and be sure the brackets are nailed into an actual truss or rafter.

Watch for other areas of risk

There are lots of areas of risk on a roof, so be sure to keep an eye out for these dangers anytime you are on a roof. Avoid stepping on any debris or impediments like leaves, branches, or tools. Be aware of any skylights and avoid stepping on them. Also watch out for edges and level splits that can be a tripping hazard. It’s also important to check the weather before getting on the roof to avoid high winds, rain, or lightning. Finally, keep in mind that lifting and working on a roof can lead to strains or other injuries.

For most people, getting on the roof is a rare occurrence, and those who are not properly trained or prepared should avoid it. It is better to seek the help of a qualified and experienced roofer rather than putting oneself at risk.

Any manufactured product has the possibility of having a defect. Think about the number of safety recalls on cars or the limited warranty that covers your kitchen appliances in case of a manufacturer’s defect. The products used in roofing are no different. Sometimes, defects happen.

The roofing materials we use are all covered with a manufacturer’s warranty. We’re even required to attend trainings and be certified in their installation process to ensure that we’re installing the roof correctly. But even with correct installation, sometimes problems show up later that are tied back to an issue with the product. That’s why there’s a warranty on the materials.

So what’s the process when a manufacturer’s defect occurs? Well, first we’ll tell you that it’s sometimes a bit of a long process. If you suspect something’s wrong with your roof, contact your roofing company and the manufacturer right away to report the issue. It’s important to note that the warranty is between the homeowner and the manufacturer. The roofing company is involved in the process, too, but some manufacturers want to hear directly from the homeowner at each step of the process.

Time is especially critical if you’re selling a home, as the replacement process may take longer than the closing process and could interfere with the sale. The normal time frame for a warranty roof replacement is between 30 and 45 days, but we’ve also seen it take longer than that.

The first step in the process is the manufacturer sends a representative to inspect the roof. They look at the shingles, check to ensure there’s proper ventilation on the roof, and verify that everything was installed correctly. They might also take a shingle to analyze more carefully to try and figure out exactly what went wrong with the material.

Once the manufacturer confirms that it was a defect in the material, they’ll authorize the replacement roof and will work with the roofing company to provide materials and pay them for labor. The manufacturer will send you some paperwork to sign, and then the shingles will be shipped to your home. Be sure to keep an eye out for that paperwork and return it promptly, because shingles won’t be shipped until the company receives the paperwork.

As soon as the shingles arrive, the process is pretty similar to any roofing project where we remove the old roof in small sections, replace the necessary layers of the roof, and then ensure the job site is cleaned thoroughly of any nails or roofing debris.

Another important thing to note about roof warranties is that they’re often transferable to a new owner but you usually only get one transfer. If you’re buying a house, be sure to ask about the roof warranty and what company installed the current roof. If you’ve had a new roof installed, be sure to complete any paperwork to register the warranty and ensure you’re covered.